Drama - Silent movies using Melodrama

A unit of work for students to learn about the style of Melodrama and using the elements to create a Silent Movie.
They will learn about the stock characters of Melodrama and the style of acting.
Using facial expression, characterisation, comedy and clear mime, a story will be created that can be filmed. The students will respond to various music (Charlie Chaplin is ideal) to show moods for each scene and also have the opportunity to use placards to link the story together. Some basic stage combat and chases is incorporated two. Can be taught over three 75-minute lessons resulting in performance and evaluation as well as providing the opportunity to source props and costumes and make placards as homework in preparation for the end performance. This pack includes three power points, a printable scene structure to give the students and an intensive scheme of work with built in games/warm-ups connected to the topic.